Definition

Sporadic CJD—most common type, usually affecting people aged 50 years and older

Familial CJD—an inherited form of the disease

Iatrogenic CJD—contracted through medical procedures, such as injections of growth hormone, receipt of
corneal transplants,
or dura mater implants from affected donors

Variant CJD
(vCJD)
is a different prion disease caused by eating contaminated beef products. This variant form differs from other forms of CJD because it affects younger people and has a longer average time course.

Causes

It is generally believed that CJD is caused by infectious proteins called prions. Prions are normal proteins in the body. If these prions fold up in a different way than normal, they may transform into the protein that causes the illness. The build-up of abnormal prions may be linked to the brain damage associated with CJD.

Risk Factors

People over 50 years old have an increased chance of getting sporadic CJD.

Family members with CJD increase your chance of getting familial CJD. Approximately 10% of cases are inherited.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.